Yen strengthens as Russia rejects Ukraine peace plan

The USD/JPY pair is experiencing notable movements, with the yen strengthening against the dollar at 156.72. This yen appreciation is driven by its status as a safe-haven currency amid growing geopolitical tensions and potential instability in Eastern Europe, following Russia's rejection of Trump's Ukraine peace plan. While the robust US dollar, supported by rising Treasury yields, applies external pressure, the yen's appeal is bolstered by the Bank of Japan's (BOJ) recent considerations for a possible rate hike. As the BOJ continues to assess economic data, including wage growth and clarity on future US policies, the potential for such hikes further supports the yen's strength. Traders should monitor BOJ policy announcements and global geopolitical developments, as the yen's safe-haven status might attract more interest, balancing external pressures from US economic factors.